Lauren Zonfrillo is an Australian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the widow of renowned chef Jock Zonfrillo, best known for his role as a judge on MasterChef Australia. Following Jock’s sudden death in May 2023, Lauren has become a prominent voice in discussions about grief, resilience, and preserving cultural heritage.
Lauren is the founder of Pulse Collective, an award-winning Australian marketing and communications agency. She has been recognized as one of Australia’s 50 influential women entrepreneurs and has served as a panellist on ABC’s Gruen and a commentator on Channel 7 news and The Project.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, she is the CEO of the Orana Group, which includes the acclaimed Restaurant Orana, recognized as Australia’s Restaurant of the Year in 2018 and 2019. Lauren also serves as the Chair of the McLaren Vale Grape Wine and Tourism Association and is a Board Director of the Rundle Mall Management Authority.
Early Life and Background
Lauren Zonfrillo was born in Australia, although details of her exact date and place of birth are not widely publicized. While she has always been a private individual about some aspects of her personal life, what is known is that she comes from humble beginnings.
Family and Education
Lauren’s family has been a significant part of her journey. She met her late husband, Jock Zonfrillo, in 2014 via Twitter, and their relationship blossomed into a deep and lasting partnership. They married on January 1, 2017, and became parents to two children: a son, Alfie, born in 2018, and a daughter, Isla, born in 2020. In addition, Jock brought two daughters into their family from his previous relationships, creating a blended family.
In terms of her education, Lauren has always been highly motivated and driven. She pursued her academic studies with focus and commitment, although specific details of her formal education remain somewhat private. Her professional trajectory showcases a blend of practical experience and a deep understanding of business, marketing, and communications.
Career Path and Achievements
Lauren Zonfrillo’s career is diverse, spanning various industries, from marketing and communications to hospitality and philanthropy. As an entrepreneur, she has established herself as a leader in her field.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Lauren is the founder of Pulse Collective, a highly successful Australian marketing and communications agency. Under her leadership, Pulse Collective gained recognition for its innovative approach to marketing and its ability to connect brands with their audiences in meaningful ways. The company has earned several accolades for its work, establishing Lauren as a force to be reckoned with in the business world.
In addition to Pulse Collective, Lauren has served as the CEO of the Orana Group, a hospitality organization that includes Restaurant Orana. Restaurant Orana, located in Adelaide, became one of Australia’s most celebrated restaurants, earning accolades like Australia’s Restaurant of the Year in both 2018 and 2019. Through her leadership at the Orana Group, Lauren helped cement her position in the Australian hospitality and culinary landscape.
Leadership in the Industry
Lauren is also heavily involved in the broader Australian food and wine industry. She currently serves as the Chair of the McLaren Vale Grape Wine and Tourism Association and is a Board Director of the Rundle Mall Management Authority. These roles have allowed her to influence the direction of Australia’s wine tourism industry and ensure that Australian wines receive the recognition they deserve globally.
Lauren’s career has also seen her take on high-profile media roles. She has been a panellist on Gruen, ABC’s popular marketing and advertising show, and has appeared as a commentator on Channel 7 news and The Project, further cementing her status as a thought leader and public figure in Australia.
Memoir and Advocacy Work
In 2025, Lauren Zonfrillo released a deeply personal memoir titled Till Death Do Us Part: Life Without Jock and Learning to Live with Intention. In this book, she shares her experience of grief following the untimely death of her husband, Jock Zonfrillo, and how she has navigated life as a widow and single mother. The memoir offers a candid look at the challenges of losing a loved one, but also provides inspiration for others facing similar challenges.
Personal Life
Lauren Zonfrillo’s personal life is often centered around her family, particularly her two children, Alfie and Isla. Following Jock’s death, she has maintained a focus on their well-being and the continuation of his legacy, while also pursuing her passions and professional endeavors.
Husband: Jock Zonfrillo
Jock Zonfrillo was a renowned chef and television personality, best known for his role as a judge on MasterChef Australia. His death in April 2023 shocked the nation and the culinary world. The couple’s relationship was built on love and mutual respect, with Jock often praising Lauren for her strength, intelligence, and unwavering support. Despite their busy careers, they made a point to prioritize their family and their shared values.
Jock Zonfrillo’s Passing
Jock Zonfrillo was tragically found dead in his hotel room on April 30, 2023, just a day before the new season of MasterChef Australia was set to premiere. His passing was sudden, and the cause was initially kept private. Lauren, who was in Rome at the time, became concerned when Jock stopped responding to her calls and arranged for a welfare check, which led to the discovery of his body.
Social Media Presence
Lauren Zonfrillo maintains a relatively low profile on social media compared to many public figures. However, she does use Instagram to share glimpses of her personal life, her work, and her family. Her Instagram handle is @laurenzonfrillo, where she posts occasionally about her life as a mother, her professional ventures, and her ongoing advocacy work.
Net Worth
Lauren Zonfrillo’s net worth is not publicly available, but it is estimated that her wealth comes from her work with Pulse Collective, the Orana Group, her investments, and her advocacy roles. She has successfully built a career that balances business success with a focus on social responsibility and cultural preservation.
Conclusion
Lauren Zonfrillo has emerged as a powerful figure in her own right, particularly after the tragic passing of her husband, Jock Zonfrillo. Through her entrepreneurial ventures, philanthropic work, and commitment to preserving Indigenous Australian food culture, she has made a lasting impact on both her community and the Australian culinary scene.
FAQs
Who is Lauren Zonfrillo?
Lauren Zonfrillo is an Australian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the widow of renowned chef Jock Zonfrillo. She is known for her leadership in marketing, communications, and Indigenous food advocacy.
When did Lauren Zonfrillo get married?
Lauren married Jock Zonfrillo on January 1, 2017.
Does Lauren Zonfrillo have children?
Yes, Lauren has two children with Jock Zonfrillo: a son named Alfie, born in 2018, and a daughter named Isla, born in 2020.
What is Lauren Zonfrillo’s career?
Lauren is the founder of Pulse Collective, a marketing agency, and serves as the CEO of the Orana Group, which includes the acclaimed Restaurant Orana. She is also involved in the Australian wine tourism industry and Indigenous food culture.
How did Jock Zonfrillo pass away?
Jock Zonfrillo passed away suddenly on April 30, 2023. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.
Where is Lauren Zonfrillo from?
Lauren Zonfrillo is from Australia, though details about her exact birthplace are not widely known.
